LPD stands out

Published: Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at 12:30 a.m.

Last Modified: Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at 5:10 p.m.

Editor: The City of Lexington and its residents are very fortunate to have a very capable and professional police department. This is because of dedicated officers and an effective leadership team. There have been many people over the years that have made this possible, but let me highlight two members of this leadership team.

John Lollis has been a good chief who knows about law enforcement and took a common sense approach to problems and issues. He has had many roles and responsibilities, which he has handled well. His leadership toward the 40 percent reduction in major crime in Lexington is a prime example of his work.

Tad Kepley comes from a law enforcement family and also has done a remarkable job of handling matters in his many roles at the department. He is a quiet and unassuming leader who demands results. He is a natural pick and a good selection for LPD's new chief.

I know these things from the partnership Lexington Police Department has with neighboring law enforcement agencies. I also know this from my 36 years working in law enforcement in Davidson and Guilford counties. LPD is a good department. It has a solid reputation of professionalism and service.

Congratulations to Chief John Lollis on his retirement and service to the citizens of Lexington. Congratulations to Chief Tad Kepley on his appointment as Lexington's top officer. The City of Lexington (and my hometown) is in capable hands. The Lexington Police Department should continue its tradition of providing quality police service and professionalism to its citizens.

<p>Editor: The City of Lexington and its residents are very fortunate to have a very capable and professional police department. This is because of dedicated officers and an effective leadership team. There have been many people over the years that have made this possible, but let me highlight two members of this leadership team. </p><p>John Lollis has been a good chief who knows about law enforcement and took a common sense approach to problems and issues. He has had many roles and responsibilities, which he has handled well. His leadership toward the 40 percent reduction in major crime in Lexington is a prime example of his work. </p><p>Tad Kepley comes from a law enforcement family and also has done a remarkable job of handling matters in his many roles at the department. He is a quiet and unassuming leader who demands results. He is a natural pick and a good selection for LPD's new chief. </p><p>I know these things from the partnership Lexington Police Department has with neighboring law enforcement agencies. I also know this from my 36 years working in law enforcement in Davidson and Guilford counties. LPD is a good department. It has a solid reputation of professionalism and service. </p><p>Congratulations to Chief John Lollis on his retirement and service to the citizens of Lexington. Congratulations to Chief Tad Kepley on his appointment as Lexington's top officer. The City of Lexington (and my hometown) is in capable hands. The Lexington Police Department should continue its tradition of providing quality police service and professionalism to its citizens. </p><p>Jim Tate</p><p>Thomasville</p><p>Major/assistant chief of police (retired)</p><p>High Point Police Department</p>